Senate Bill 265 proposes a new requirement for the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to waive daily admission fees for state parks on April 22 each year, in honor of Earth Day and its founder, Gaylord Nelson. Currently, vehicles entering state parks must display an admission receipt for which a fee is charged, but the DNR has the discretion to waive these fees under certain circumstances. This bill specifically mandates the fee waiver for Earth Day, ensuring that all visitors can access state parks without charge on this date.

The bill introduces new legal language by creating section 27.01 (9) (b) of the statutes, which explicitly states that the DNR shall waive any daily fee for admission to state parks on Earth Day, including any associated issuing fees. This change aims to promote environmental awareness and encourage public participation in celebrating Earth Day by making state parks more accessible to all residents and visitors.